Tue Mar 18 11:14:32 UTC 2025: ## Nagpur Violence Erupts Following Blockbuster Movie’s Portrayal of Maratha King

**Nagpur, Maharashtra –** Violence and arson erupted in Nagpur last night following the release of the blockbuster Marathi film “Chhaava,” which depicts the life and death of Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his battles against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The incident left 33 police officers injured, including three Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attributed the violence to the film’s depiction of history, stating that it ignited public anger against Aurangzeb and heightened sentiments surrounding Sambhaji Maharaj. While acknowledging the public’s emotional response, he stressed that the violence was unacceptable and that those responsible, regardless of their affiliation, would face legal consequences. He described the incident as a “well-planned attack,” citing the involvement of groups like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, who had earlier protested demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb from the state.

However, the opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) strongly criticized the Chief Minister’s statement, accusing him of a “shameful blame game” and pointing fingers at the movie for the riots. Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned why a film celebrating Sambhaji Maharaj’s valor was being held responsible for the violence, instead of those in power whose comments may have fueled tensions.

The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj and Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, has been a major box office success. Following the violence, prohibitory orders have been imposed in several parts of Nagpur. The incident has sparked a political debate, with the opposition accusing the ruling party of stoking tensions through their remarks, while the ruling party counters that the opposition glorifies Mughal rulers. The investigation into the violence is ongoing.

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